Ultimate Guide to Dermal Fillers
Most of the visible signs of aging come from a loss of volume. As skin thins out, lines and wrinkles show up around the nose, mouth, and eyes and the cheeks become hollow. Fortunately, dermal fillers can restore that lost volume and give you a youthful glow. Learn more about treatment options with our ultimate guide to dermal fillers.
Dermal Fillers
As the name suggests, dermal fillers are a gel like substance that is injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume. This treatment can smooth out lines and wrinkles, soften creases and enhance facial contours. It is a very cost-effective way to look younger or enhance your facial features, without surgery.
Enhance Your Appearance with Fillers
While they are typically thought of as wrinkle fillers, dermal fillers can do so much more. Fillers are a great way to address several of the common issues people have. Fillers work well for:
- Improving symmetry of the facial features
- Smoothing out lines around the nose and mouth
- Smooth out chin creases
- Enhances and restoring volume to hollow cheeks or temples
- Plumping and enhancing the lips
- Diminishing vertical lip lines
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
The body naturally produces hyaluronic acid to keep the skin plump and hydrated. HA fillers are soft, gel like fillers that offer temporary results which usually last between 6-12 months before the body naturally absorbs the particles.
Typically, HA fillers are used in combination with lidocaine to minimize discomfort during and after treatment. Some FDA approved HA fillers include Juvéderm, Restylane and Belotero Balance.
Poly-L-lactic Acid Fillers
Poly-L-lactic acid is a biocompatible, biodegradable synthetic substance. It is used in many medical devices like dissolvable stitches. This type of filler is classified as a collagen stimulator since they work to smooth fine lines by helping the body rebuild collagen. The filler dissipates a few days after injection, but the collagen boost creates results that could last for more than 2 years. FDA approved Poly-L-lactic acid fillers include Sculptra Aesthetic.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite
CaHA also occurs naturally in the body. When it is used in a filler, the calcium particles are nearly microscopic and are suspended in a smooth gel. The thicker consistency of a CaHA filler means that the results typically last longer.
This filler is also reported to help stimulate collagen production and is commonly used for deeper lines and wrinkles. Radiesse is an FDA approved CaHA filler.
Polymethylmetrhacrylate
PMMA is a synthetic, biocompatible substance that is commonly used in medicine. In dermal fillers, PMMA takes the form of tiny balls or microspheres. These remain under the skin indefinitely to provide support. These fillers also contain collagen to help provide structure and firmness. FDA approved PMMA fillers include Bellafill.
Choosing a Filler
There are so many great fillers to choose from that it can be an overwhelming choice. Fortunately, your dermatologist can recommend the best options based on your skin and problem areas.
During a consultation, your provider will evaluate your area of concern, review your medical history, and help you create a treatment plan.
During Treatment
Before injections begin, the treatment area will be cleaned, and you may receive a topical anesthetic to numb the area. Several fillers also contain lidocaine to minimize discomfort. Depending on the treatment area, you may see results immediately. How long your results last will depend on which filler you choose.
Some patients may have mild bruising and swelling but these subside in a few days. You can resume normal activities right after treatment, but your provider may ask you to skip your workout or other strenuous activity for the day.
Qualified Dermal Filler Provider Near Me
With dermal fillers, you can get natural-looking enhancements and regain confidence in your appearance. If you would like to learn more about the treatment options, please contact Reston Dermatology today.